A little known hidden gem in Dublin yet probably one of the best museums in Ireland if not Europe, the Chester Beatty Library houses a rich collection of manuscripts, miniature paintings, prints, drawings, rare books, and decorative arts from across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and Asia. Amassed over the years by American mining engineer Sir Alfred Chester Beatty (1875-1968) himself, the collection includes priceless works dated from  2700 BC to the present day. Hidden within the walls of Dublin Castle, admission to the various exhibitions is free. After you have marveled at the largest collection of Islamic manuscripts outside of the Middle East, refuel with tea and a range of mouth-watering delicacies from Afghanistan, Greece, Italy, Jordan, Morocco, and Palestine at the main floor Silk Road Cafe.